BOOM Magazine January 2015

January 2015

Healthy

Treat

Options for Your Furry Friends

Smooth Sailing on Vacation

Snow shoes

Hip

Replacement Right for Me?

Easy

Holiday Clean-Up

The newest dining option at the Morris Inn, Rohr’s serves casual but enticing food in a warm and welcoming environment. Ideal for a relaxed evening with friends or a lively place to watch the big game!

JANUARY SPECIALS Drink specials available all day. Food specials begin at 4:00pm.

MONDAY:

WEDNESDAY:

SATURDAY:

Quarterback Sack // 5

Sangria // 5

Simply Divine // 5

New Amsterdam Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Cranberry Juice

Bell’s 2 Hearted or Seasonal Draft // 4

Divine Vodka, Chambord, Pineapple Juice

Appetizers // 3 off

Great Lakes Edmond Fitzgerald or Woodchuck Hard Cider Draft // 4

THURSDAY:

Prime Rib Sandwich // 12

Shock Top or Bud Light Draft // 3 Green Chili with Pulled Pork Ultimate Nachos // 9

Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey // 4 SUNDAY:

Guinness or Smithwicks Draft // 4

TUESDAY:

Game Changer // 5

Bone in or Boneless Wings // .60 each

Captain Morgan Spiced Rum // 3.50 Stella or Sam Adams (Seasonal) Draft // 4

Camarena Silver Tequila, Lime Juice, Triple Sec

FRIDAY:

Rohr’s Burger // 5

3 Floyd’s Pride and Joy or New Castle Draft // 4

Berries and Cream Martini // 7

Cheeseburger // 6

Dogfish Head (Seasonal) or Fat Tire Draft // 4

Chef’s Choice

Fried Calamari Basket // 8

HOURS: Weekdays 11:00 am to 1 am // Weekends 11:00 am to 2 am

130 MORRIS INN

//

NOTRE DAME, IN 46556

//

574-631-2018

//

MORRISINN.ND.EDU

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10 boom / What's inside EVERY MONTH

boom TRAVELER

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6 Things We Learned Making This Issue

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Day Trip: Gilmore Car Museum

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Contributors & Testimonials

6

BOOM Timeline

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How To Find Smooth Sailing On Vacation

By: Phyllis Rose

By: Gayla Grace

boom RECIPE

boom HOBBIES

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18

Some Things Hitchcock

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Snowshoes Offer Winter Transportation, Winter Fun

Old Fashion Chicken Pot Pie

boom BOOK REVIEW 29

The End Of Absence By: Michael Harris Reviewed By: Bruce Runnels

By: Margo & Jim Bell

By: Evie Kirkwood

boom PETS

boom HOME

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Healthy Treat Options For Your Furry Friends

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29

Loving Animals Looking For Their Forever Home

Boom LIFE

By: Jillian Koeneman

boom HEALTHY LIVING

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Make Holiday Clean-Up Easy By: Lara West

The 30-Year Secret By: Sue Carloni

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From The Inside

THE PLANNER

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Is A Hip Replacement Right For Me?

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By: Michael Hall, M.D. By: Jeffrey Yergler, M.D.

Boom Events to Put in Your Planner

boom

6

Letter from the publisher

Things We Learned Making the January Issue

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Betsy Tavernier Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Managing Editor:

Jessica Haviland Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

AD COORDINATOR & INSIDE SALES MANAGER

Amanda Oiler Amanda@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Photography: Classic Image photography Makeup: CamellIa Cosmetics, Granger

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager:

Betsy Tavernier Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Zuzanna Zmud Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

MEDICAL EDITOR: Dr. Jesse Hsieh

1. Not all human food is good for your pets. Visit page 8 to find out what food you can share with your furry friends!

2. Calling all Hitchcock fans! Take our movie trivia quiz on page 18 to see how well you know your Hitchcock movies!

Distribution Managers: Mike Trentacosti Kevin Reynolds

BOOM Magazine is a division of Michiana Family Magazines, LLC established in 2006. All rights reserved.

We would love to hear from you!

Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com The FAMILY Magazines P.O. BOX 577 Granger, IN 46530 PH: 574.387.5420 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.MichianaMom.com

3. Take the grandkids to a car museum. Our travel expert gives us an inside glimpse of what a local car museum is like on page 14.

Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication.

Read BOOM Magazine online each month!

Go to www.MichianaMom.com and flip the pages, cover-to-cover the organic and green way!

4. Snowshoes were the ancient mode of winter transportation. Learn more about snowshoes and how you can incorporate them into your life on page 20.

January 2015 Volume 4: Number 1

5. An old fashion Chicken Pot Pie for dinner is perfect for a cold winter night! Get the recipe on page 28.

LOOK WHO’s TALKING

follow us on Twitter, and become our fan on Facebook. @MichianaBoom www.facebook.com/pages/BOOM-Magazine/

6. Can you keep a 30-Year old secret? Visit page 24 to see how one lady kept a secret from her husband for three decades!

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www.pinterest.com/boommagazine/ MichianaBoom

january / contributors

Margo Bell Margo Bell, a first-wave Boomer, has a B.S. degree in Biology from Arkansas State University and worked in medical and marine biology research before making a mid-life career change to writing for adults and children. Margo is a former magazine editor and has published over 50 articles and features in newspapers and magazines. She and her husband Jim live in South Bend and have two grandchildren.

Photo Credit: Classic Image Photography

Evelyn Kirkwood Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph County Parks in Indiana and the host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcast Sundays at 9 AM and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM on WNIT Public Television.

Phyllis Rose With a love for the English language and travel, Phyllis Rose became an English teacher, freelance writer and traveler. She taught high school English for 29 years while also working as a freelance writer and editor. Retiring from teaching, she turned her part-time writing career into full-time, writing for newspapers and magazines. Phyllis loves international travel, especially to Europe. When not writing or traveling, she loves to read, do counted cross-stitch projects and plan her next travel adventure.

Jillian Koeneman

(@jillianmk) founded Freshlime: Digital Marketing (www. freshlimemarketing.com) in 2010 in order to lead businesses to increased sales and greater brand awareness through social media marketing and other online vehicles. Koeneman is a Board Member of the Women Business Owners of Michiana and volunteers on the Marketing Committee for the Humane Society of Elkhart County. She also heads up all marketing for her husband’s new business, Anytime Fitness in Goshen. Koeneman earned a degree in advertising and public relations from Michigan State University in 2004 and was a member of two National Championship Water Polo Teams.

boom / testimonials

The 2014 Holiday Walk was amazing. It has now become a new tradition for my daughter and I to go to each and every year!”

– Kay M.

It’s so great to finally have a magazine that relates to the Baby Boomers! And, the best part is, BOOM Magazine is local!”

– Arlene S.

Sometimes it is hard to find things to do in the winter for my husband and I but BOOM Magazine always informs their readers of fun and exciting things to do in Michiana!”

– Lois M.

VIP January

advertisers

Special THANKS to the following VIP January advertisers that helped us provide Boom Magazine to the Michiana community for Free: Afdent Dental Beacon Health Systems

Hubbard Hill Retirement Community

Center for Hospice Care

Menno Travel

Ginger Valley

MutualBank OSMC

January Events 1 2

Happy New Year!

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Valley RV & Camping Show, 12:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M., Century Center Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday

Snowshoe Club for Seniors, 10:30 A.M., Ferettie/Baugo Creek: Baugo Station John Mellencamp, 7:30 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center

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Hot Chocolate

Lake-The State Ballet Theatre of Russia, 7:30 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center

www.therecipecritic.com

Chocolate Truffle Mocha

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4 Oz. Skim Milk 3 Tbsp Chocolate Syrup 2 Oz Kahlua Directions: Mix all ingredients in a glass that is filled with ice and stir! (You can make this a hot drink as well!)

Feature Your Pet Here!

Spouses Day

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Space Shuttle Challenger Accident, 6:30 P.M., PHM Digital Video Theater/Planetarium

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Michiana Boat & Sports Show, 12:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M., Century Center

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Michiana Boat & Sports Show, 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M., Century Center

Cozy Slippers

www.123picsi.blogspot.com

Ingredients: 2 Oz. Espresso

Sister Act, 8:00 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center

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Valley RV & Camping Show, 10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M., Century Center

Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day

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Dress Up Your Pet Day

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National Bird Day

The Odd Couple, 7:30 P.M., Bristol Opera House

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Staying Warm

The Russian National Ballet Theatre Presents Don Quixote, 4:00 P.M., Lake Michigan College Mendel Center

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Pinning:

Bubble Bath Day

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What We Are

Friday Night Folk Dancing, 7:30 P.M., St. Paul’s Memorial United Methodist Church, South Bend

Fireside Warmth

www.warrengrovegarden.blogspot.com

BOOM Reader Pets

Want your furry friends featured in the upcoming BOOM Magazine?

Send your photos to Jessy@Michiana FamilyMagazine.com!

Rita Miller’s Granddog,

Yogi!

Jillian Koeneman’s Dogs,

Bailey and Reese!

DIY Winter Wreaths Get into the winter spirit by creating your own winter wreath! This simple and fun DIY project can be done alone or with the grandkids!

Supplies Needed:

• Pinecones (You can find these around your house or can be bought at your local craft store!)

• Wood Circle Wreath (You can find these at your local dollar store!)

Directions:

• Glitter Bulbs/Circles (These can be left over from your Christmas tree!)

• Brown Moss (This can be bought at your local craft store!)

• Hot Glue Gun and Glue

1. Wrap the moss around the wood circle wreath. Glue each ends to the wreath to make it secure.

3. If you see any open spaces or areas of the wreath that needs to be filled, hot glue the glitter bulbs.

2. Glue the pinecones around the wreath.

(If you get the pinecones from outside, you may want to air them out to be dry. This will make it easier for the pinecones to adhere to the moss.)

4. Add a personal touch by adding a ribbon or a wood letter to your new wreath!

5. ENJOY!

New Year’s Resolutions You Should Try This Year Tired of making the same New Year’s resolutions every year that will eventually be broken? Try these New Year’s resolutions this year that will be easy to conquer.

1. Donate to your Local Charity: Besides donating during the holidays, donate at least one other time this year to a local charity of your choice!

2. Try New Recipes: Even if the new recipe is once a week to once a month!

3. Recycle: You can choose to recycle just plastic or you can go all out and recycle everything that you throw away!

4. Save Money For Your Next Vacation: Each week, put aside $20 or more for your next vacation. The money can be used to book your plane tickets, hotel reservations or even for spending money.

5. Drink More Water: Not only will this help eliminate your caffeinated drinks but will also keep your body healthy and hydrated!

CHECK OUT www.adecinc.com/jobs TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN FIND EMPLOYMENT AND CHANGE LIVES. boom | JaNUARY 2015

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By: Jillian Koeneman

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JANUARY 2015 | boom

boom | JaNUARY 2015

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boom

Healthy Living

By: Michael Hall, M.D.

Today’s X-rays and Imaging Technology Do More Than Spot Problems— THEY TREAT THEM!

Remember 8-track tapes, the advent of cable television and the days before cordless phones? You’re probably amazed by how much doctors can see inside the body these days without surgery. So it might come as a surprise that not only is radiology used to diagnose medical conditions but is also used to treat them. The practice is called interventional radiology (IR).

We always used to say that even our mothers didn’t know what we do.

For many years, IR had little public perception, and it had to do with the origins of the field. Nowadays more people know what IR is, but most don’t.

Inside IR Interventional radiology takes imaging a step further, by treating disease without open surgery. In many procedures, guided by ultrasound or X-ray technology, small tubes called catheters are threaded into arteries and guided to different areas of the body to deliver medicine, destroy tumors, relieve vascular blockages and carry out other procedures. In many cases IR reduces treatment time and complication risk, but it has other benefits too. It can be used to obtain biopsies, to treat spinal or pelvic fracture, to install venous catheters (to deliver medicine in hospitalized patients) and to diagnose postsurgical infections. IR uses imaging to see inside a person so that we can do a surgical procedure—without having to cut someone open.

From A to V Once thought to be radical, interventional radiology today treats dozens of medical conditions. The methods that at one time were felt to be experimental or unusual are now mainstream and are broadly used, often reducing total cost of care. As technology continues to advance, this ever-changing area of medicine will allow doctors an inside look, improving our healthcare and treatment options.

Here are some examples of what conditions IR is helping treat today: ATHEROSCLEROSIS: One of the betterknown IR procedures, angioplasty is used to treat atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.

A catheter is inserted through the skin into an artery and guided to the site of a blockage. Then a tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to expand the arterial wall. Next, the balloon is deflated, and a small expandable tube called a stent is often left in place to keep the artery open.

DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS (DVT):

Blood clots within the legs often produce swelling and limited ability to walk. Over time these blood clots can damage the vein limiting the ability to carry blood back to the heart. This results in chronic leg swelling. IR can place catheters into the blocked veins and drip a medicine to break up the blood clots, limiting long-term damage to the vein.

ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM (AAA):

Together with or surgical colleagues stents can be inserted into the aorta with small groin incisions to treat an aneurysm, thereby decreasing the chance of rupture and possibly death.

BRAIN ANEURYSMS: Using a catheter, a small coil is placed in the aneurysm, or weakness in an artery in the brain. A blood clot forms around the coil, blocking the weakness off and preventing it from causing a stroke. In collaboration with Neurosurgery, Memorial Hospital is the only center in this region able to offer this procedure.

FIBROID TUMORS: Using a catheter, small

synthetic particles are injected into the arteries connected to the fibroid, cutting off blood flow and causing them to shrink so as to decrease related bleeding and pain.

LIVER CANCER: Doctors can block the blood

supply to primary or metastatic cancers involving the liver (such as colon cancer). This is done by injecting small particles containing powerful anticancer drugs into the arteries of the liver.

SPINAL FRACTURES: Patients with

compression fractures of the spine or pelvis can be treated with vertebroplasty, a procedure in which a needle is used to insert cement like substance that holds the vertebrae (or sacrum/pelvis) together.

VARICOSE VEINS: A catheter is inserted into

Benefits abound Interventional radiology is a minimally invasive treatment option for many conditions. It often offers a variety of benefits, including: - Shorter recovery - Targeted therapy (for example, chemotherapy medicine is delivered to the site of cancer instead of taken intravenously) - Higher chance of being treated on an outpatient basis - Lower cost •••

the vein and then laser or radio frequency energy causes the vein to collapse. The leg’s healthy veins will do the job of carrying blood. boom | JaNUARY 2015

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boom

Healthy Living

Is a

Hip Replacement Right for Me?

By: Jeffrey Yergler, M.D.

Living with a worn or injured hip joint can be uncomfortable and frustrating. You start to limit your daily activities, and even simple things like walking through the grocery store can be painful. You may even have trouble sleeping if the pain continues into the night.

But how do you decide if a hip replacement is necessary or right for you? Only you can truly answer that question, but the majority of people who have hip replacement surgery usually site the following reasons: • To decrease pain • To increase mobility • To improve quality of life Did you know that each year there are more than 285,000 total hip replacements performed in the United States? That number is expected to increase with the aging of the baby boom population. But life does not end with a joint replacement … quite the opposite in fact. Active baby boomers will find it comforting to know that after surgery they will be able to resume many of their favorite activities, including golf, tennis, and swimming.

Why Does My Hip Hurt?

The hip joint is one of the body’s largest weight-bearing joints. The hip is called a ball-and-socket joint because the spherical head of the thigh bone, called the femoral head, moves inside a cupshaped hollow socket, the acetabulum.

The joint surfaces are covered by cartilage, a layer of firm elastic tissue, that cushions the bones and allows for smooth, easy movement.

This design allows for fluid movement while you walk as well as keeps the hip 12

JANUARY 2015 | boom

stable during twisting movements.

A healthy hip joint allows you to walk, squat, and turn without pain, but when your hip joint is damaged, movement becomes difficult and painful.

Although damage to the hip may require a hip replacement, the most common cause is degenerative joint disease. There are many types of hip arthritis, but the end result is the same, loss of cartilage.

Osteoarthritis is the most common

type of hip arthritis and is often called wear and tear arthritis. This condition causes your cartilage to wear down over time, resulting in bone-on-bone contact when you move. This condition usually occurs in men and women over 50 years of age and often in individuals with a family history of arthritis.

As the bones rub together, you experience hip pain and stiffness. You may also experience pain in your groin, buttocks, outside the hip, thigh, and lower back. In fact, pain from the hip is often mistaken for back pain until the diagnosis for hip arthritis is made.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a

systemic disorder, meaning it affects your entire body and not just the hip joint. The inflammation is related to an immune system response rather than simple wear and tear.

RA can occur in people of all ages, but is more common in women than men.

Unlike osteoarthritis of the hip, which may occur only in one hip, rheumatoid arthritis typically occurs in both hips at the same time (and possibly other joints). It is also associated with overall weakness and fatigue.

Post-traumatic arthritis can

Preparing for Hip Replacement There are several reasons why you may benefit from hip replacement surgery.

People who benefit from this procedure often have:

• Hip pain that limits everyday activities, such as walking or bending • Hip pain that continues while resting, either day or night

follow a serious hip injury or fracture. A bad fall or blow to the hip can break, or fracture, the bone. If the broken bone does not heal properly, the joint may start to wear down.

• Stiffness in a hip that limits the ability to move or lift the leg

Avascular Necrosis is the result of a lack of blood supply to the femoral head. The lack of blood may cause the surface of the bone to collapse and die, resulting in arthritis.

A total hip replacement surgery usually lasts 1-2 hours and is performed by an orthopedic surgeon. During the procedure the diseased bone tissue and cartilage are removed from the hip joint, leaving the healthy parts of the joint intact. The painful parts of your damaged hip are replaced with artificial parts called a prosthesis. The prosthesis consists of a socket, ball and stem. These parts are made from materials that allow a natural gliding motion of the joint.

Are There Alternative Treatments?

Not having surgery is always an alternative. Individuals who have arthritis of the hip, but function adequately, can choose to live with their condition.

There are also effective treatments for hip arthritis that may help you delay the need for a total hip replacement.

The first alternative to hip replacement involves lifestyle modification measures.

Probably one of the most important, yet least common modifications is weight loss. The less weight the joint has to carry, the less painful your activities will be. Exercise and physical therapy may be prescribed to improve the strength and flexibility of your hip and other lower extremity muscles. Your exercise program may include riding a stationary bike, light weight training and flexibility exercises.

An aquatic therapy program can be effective for the treatment of arthritis since it allows mild resistance while removing weight bearing stresses.

Activity modification is another treatment you can do on your own. Limiting certain activities may be necessary, and learning new exercise methods may be helpful.

Many people start using a walking aid, such as a cane, to help decrease the demand placed on the arthritic joint.

Anti-inflammatory pain medications (NSAIDs) are prescription and nonprescription drugs that help treat pain and inflammation. Some common NSAIDs are naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil).

• Inadequate pain relief from antiinflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or walking supports

Usually a person spends no more than 1-2 days in the hospital and patients are often ready to go home the morning after surgery. In most cases a successful total hip replacement will relieve your pain and stiffness, allowing you to resume many of your normal daily activities.

You will still have some restrictions.

With normal use and activity, every hip replacement implant begins to wear-and-tear just like a natural hip.

Excessive activity or weight may speed up this normal wear and may cause the hip replacement to loosen and become painful. Therefore, most surgeons advise against high-impact activities such as running and jumping.

Realistic activities following total hip replacement include walking, swimming, golf, light hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and other low-impact sports.

An active lifestyle definitely does not end with a hip replacement! boom | JaNUARY 2015

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boom

Day Trip:

traveler

Gilmore

Car Museum By: Phyllis Rose

1929 Duesenberg

Photos Provided by Phyllis Rose

T

ired of squinting in the blinding glow of the snow? If so, squint at something more fun - shiny vintage cars glowing in the spotlights at the Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, Michigan.

Yes, the museum is all about cars but there’s a lot more as well - videos of automotive history, vintage children’s pedal cars, period fashions, the humungous Gnome-Mobile set from a Disney movie and good food.

Arriving on a bright, sunny day, Dave and I were surprised at the museum’s expansion since our last visit years ago. We hardly recognized the place and there were more surprises inside.

Entering the Gilmore Heritage Center, we purchased our tickets and received a map of the campus. Then, there before us were the cars. The problem was where to start. Dave went one way and I another. I think Dave heads for the ones that bring back childhood memories while I tend to head for bright colors, such as a beautiful, blue 1929 Duesenberg with sleek lines, white-walled tires, wire hub caps and chrome accents.

Entrance to the Gilmore Heritage Center

This 1938 Mercedes sport tourer was hidden in a basement garage in Dresden, Germany, during World War II

I’m also always interested in the car’s personal story instead of horse power and the size of the wheel base. The 1929 Duesenberg was eventually owned by actor Buster Keaton’s son, James Talmadge. Then, a strange looking three-wheeled motorized contraption drew me to a display where I learned the vehicle was the world’s first automobile, invented by Karl Benz in Germany in 1885. Called a “Motorwagen,” it could reach speeds of nine miles per hour.

It contrasted greatly with the nearby 1938 Mercedes sport tourer, a gleaming silver color with a red interior, a car with an interesting story of having been hidden during World War II. To protect it, the owner hid it in his basement garage in Dresden, Germany, bricking up the entrance and planting topsoil on the driveway. It was found after the reunification of Germany and eventually restored.

As we strolled among the beautiful cars, the roar of an engine shattered the stillness. What was it? It was an interactive station which taught us about exhaust systems. Pushing buttons, we heard the different sounds made by a glass pack muffler, performance duals and a stock muffler. Kids will love this station!

We wandered into the Franklin Collection, a re-creation of a 1918 Franklin showroom in Los Angeles, where we enjoyed a video featuring historic footage of a 1904 trek from coast-tocoast in a Franklin with an air-cooled engine. After crossing a desert, traveling on dirt roads, and dealing with all the mishaps of a road trip in those early days, the driving team made it from San Francisco to New York City in 32 days, setting a record.

By the time we’d made our way through the newly opened Lincoln Motor Car Heritage Museum designed to look like a Lincoln dealership and the Steam Barn featuring steam engines and horseless carriages up through 1915, we were hungry. Right outside was just what we needed, George & Sally’s Blue Moon Diner, a 1941 Silk City diner moved to the Gilmore from Connecticut. Fortunately, it wasn’t busy and we settled into a booth, soaking up the retro atmosphere. It reminded me of the soda fountain in Muir’s Drugstore where I worked the summer after my high school graduation.

Royce it represents, it really makes you feel small. Nearby, the 1967 “Gnome-Mobile” movie is playing so you can see the Gnome-Mobile in action.

If you’re fascinated with hood ornaments, you’ll find plenty in the old train depot. Nearby, the Classic Car Club of America Museum features video kiosks to tell you about each of the cars such as the red and white 1933 Stutz Monte Carlo. The 1897 Campania Barn, moved to the site in 1966, houses 1930-era cars on the upper level and 1940 vehicles on the lower level.

Two other buildings we explored were the recently opened Cadillac-LaSalle Museum, designed to look like a 1948 Cadillac dealership and the Model-A Ford Museum, a replica of a 1928 Ford Dealership. By this time, I was glad to see something besides cars. In the Model-A museum, we found kiosks telling us about things such as fashions - including the changing hemlines and waistlines during the Model-A Era.

George & Sally's Blue Moon Diner, a 1941 Silk City Diner, serves up great food in a retro atmosphere We ordered chili, a coney-style hot dog for Dave, and a BBQ sandwich for me, with sides of potato salad. Our sandwiches were served in paper baskets while our pop came in 8-ounce glass bottles just like in the old days. Everything was absolutely delicious, including our hot fudge sundaes. By the time we finished, there was a line waiting to get into this small eatery. The diner is closed in the winter, but food is available inside the Heritage Center at the Heritage Cafe.

From the cafe, we wandered to the out-buildings on the museum’s campus, including a 1930’s Shell Station. It’s like the ones you might have seen as a child - with an oldfashioned pop machine, a work bay, and gas pumps topped with glass shells. You can also interact with a machine that produces the sounds of car horns from 1899, 1910, 1930 and 1956. More noisy fun for kids!

Your inner child will love the Pedal Cars exhibit. Maybe you’ll see the one you had as a child. These cars are from the collection of Allegan, Michigan, resident, John L. Stegeman, who collected and restored them.

We had fun with the Gnome-Mobile in this exhibit. This is the original set from the Disney movie which was donated to the museum by Walt Disney, a personal friend of museum founder, Donald Gilmore. Four times larger than the real 1930s Rolls

For more information: Gilmore Car Museum 269-671-5089 www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org

Note: The Heritage Center, which includes the Franklin Collection, the Lincoln Museum and the Steam Barn, is open year-round. The diner and the outbuildings are open April 1-November 30.

One last stop was the gift shop where I purchased my requisite long-sleeved t-shirt embroidered with “Gilmore Car Museum.” Dave got a book about Route 66 to dream of “getting his kicks on Route 66,” as the old song says. That song’s lyrics also say, “Won’t you get hip to this timely tip.”

For the New Year, our timely tip is to resolve to get your kicks in Hickory Corners at the Gilmore Car Museum.

George & Sally's Blue Moon Diner, a 1941 Silk City Diner, serves up great food in a retro atmosphere. ••• boom | JaNUARY 2015

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traveler

How to Find

Smooth Sailing on Vacation

By: Gayla Grace

Vacation

can bring out the worst in a married couple. Long days together in cramped spaces with expectations of a picture-perfect time of rest and relaxation often results in conflict. If we don't relate well to the differentness of our spouse, we can't escape the tension.

But working through differences with compromise can create an enjoyable vacation.

We've all heard the old adage "opposites attract." It isn't hard to find extreme differences in most married couples. Some theorists believe we are attracted to those who represent our underdeveloped side of self, balancing out the qualities we lack. But the ironic part comes when we try to change that person to function as we do.

We want well-developed plans for vacation while our spouse prefers spontaneity. We like order in the cabin and nag our partner's messiness. We can't relate to our spouse's punctuality since we don't mind being late. The list goes on.

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We're confronted with a choice: Will we allow the time together on vacation to help teach us how to appreciate personality strengths and negotiate through differences, or will we spend our time trying to mold our spouse into a person more like us, creating inevitable tension while sabotaging the efforts of an enjoyable vacation?

When opposites attract, we need good communication with one another to learn how to accept each other's uniqueness.

Vacation needs require compromise for partners to get along while making decisions on where to go or how to spend money while travelling. It may involve acceptance of something we don't like, but will tolerate for the sake of our mate's creative or artistic side. Or it could include going separate ways one afternoon, with each one choosing different outings. But if we find ourselves trying to control every detail of the vacation or constantly manipulating our partner's personality to get our way, we need to evaluate our motives and talk about our differences.

“When opposites attract, we need good communication

with one another to learn how to accept each other's uniqueness.”

My husband, Randy, and I have differences that initially brought us together, but turned difficult to manage as a married couple--particularly on vacation. Randy loves spending every waking hour with people as an extreme extrovert. Although I appreciate his strong people skills, I need time alone to recharge and reflect with my introverted disposition.

Vacations became disastrous as I tried to keep up with his energy level that's recharged by people, finding myself exhausted at the end of the day due to my need for time alone. Surrounded by our children exacerbated my need to find a corner to myself. After frustrating vacation stints because of misunderstood judgments of each other, we began to understand and accept our differentness. We changed our expectations of one another on vacation and learned to express our needs, such as my desire for an hour with a good book when I needed a break from activity.

As you discuss your next vacation, consider the differences of your mate and the challenges of unique personalities in your family. Talk about what accommodations need to be made to create an enjoyable vacation for everyone. Stepmom Jan Gull recognizes her need for separation from her teenage stepson after extended hours together. She and her husband agree to stay in two hotel rooms at night with her husband and stepson in a separate room to give her time away from the tension her stepson creates. Although it might appear to be a radical compromise, for this stepfamily in its early years of bonding, it's a necessary one.

Your family has unique differences that dictate what accommodations need to be made. As you recognize and verbalize your needs with your mate, you're more likely to find solutions in the midst of differences. Enjoyable vacations are created as you learn to appreciate one another's uniqueness and seek compromising solutions when personalities collide.

Don't give up if you've had a bumpy vacation. Learn from your challenges and head out again. You might find smooth sailing at the next dock. •••

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SOME THINGS Hitchcock By: Margo and Jim Bell

Whether it’s a movie or his weekly TV program, we’ve enjoyed the artistry and surprises given us by director Alfred Hitchcock. Try your luck at solving these trivia puzzles about the Master of Suspense: Which of the following elements are often notable themes in Hitchcock movies? a. Falling b. Blonde actresses c. Monuments d. Trains e. Screaming f. Sexuality g. Murder h. All of the above What does the title “North by Northwest” mean? a. It’s the direction of the screenwriter’s birthplace, Little Rock, Arkansas, to Rapid City, South Dakota. b. It’s a quote from Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower when planning the D-Day invasion. c. It’s from a book by aviation novelist Ernest K. Gann. d. Unclear What are the two bloopers in Marnie? a. Marnie’s boss is Mr. Pendleton and later changes to Mr. Pemberton. b. She mounts and dismounts from the wrong side of her horse. c. Although terrified of the color red, she ascends a red-carpeted staircase.

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“Hitch” has taken us around the world in his films.

Match up the movies with their famous locales: 1. Vertigo a. Amsterdam 2. Torn Curtain b. Tower Bridge, London 3. The Man Who Knew Too Much c. Mount Rushmore 4. The Birds d. Statue of Liberty 5. Foreign Correspondent e. Golden Gate Park 6. North By Northwest f. Albert Hall, London 7. Saboteur g. Tivoli Restaurant, Copenhagen 8. Frenzy h. Union Square, San Francisco d. Mark Rutland (Sean Connery) has yellow pajamas on the ship but the color changes to burgundy in the next scene. e. The gun Marnie grabs at the hunt is a different model at the office.

Hitchcock is noted for his cameo appearances. Out of his 52 surviving films, how many times is he seen? a. 50 b. 46 c. 42 d. 39 e. 28

At the 1967 Academy Awards Alfred Hitchcock won the Irving C. Thalburg Award. What was unusual about his acceptance speech? a: It was written entirely by his wife Alma Reville. b: It consisted of only five words. c: On the way to the podium he did his famous silhouette pose.

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Janie

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Snowshoes Offer Winter Transportation,

Winter Fun

An informal notice in the newspaper told all to gather in the town square. The women wore long woolen skirts or bloomers; the men donned wool trousers and knit tasseled caps called “toques.” With snowshoes strapped to their leather boots they followed a route pre-determined by the event organizers through the winter landscape. “Whippers-In” trailed the group, assuring no one was left behind, helping others over fences or those struggling in deep snow.

At the end of the jaunt, the group converged on a farmhouse for warm biscuits and preserves, hearty stew and doughnuts. Singing filled the time between the early arrivers and the Whippers-In. Snowshoe outings like these, and snowshoe clubs were a unique tradition in the 1800s in the northeast.

When there is ample snow, the sport is enjoying a resurgence in popularity for winter activity. Because you can go at your own pace, it is an adaptable activity simply requiring snowshoes, warm breathable clothing and a place to hike. It’s ideal for quiet bird watching in a crusty, frozen marsh or for a rollicking workout across an open field.

Ancient mode of winter transport

Snowshoes are built for traversing the deep stuff. They spread your weight over a greater surface area so you don’t sink. An early mode of transportation, anthropologists estimate they were in use around 4000 B.C. Pre-historic American Indians were the innovators of snowshoe design, creating intricate lacings with branches and twined bark or sinew. They were useful for hunting and trapping. Cross country skis, which require poles, were less practical when toting a gun.

Today’s gear

For warm feet, you need roomy, flexible boots. You should be able to wear a pair of lightweight silk or nylon liner socks topped with a wool blend pair (skip the cotton), and still be able to wiggle your toes and bend your foot. If your feet get cold, your boots are too small.

During an afternoon hike you will build up body heat. Be sure you can shed layers. Although wool remains a good choice for winter wear, newer fabrics work just as well and are lighter weight. Your clothes should be layered, with a wicking fabric closest to your skin. Cotton is a poor choice. Instead try silk, synthetic or a lightweight wool blend. Don’t forget a hat that covers your ears and gloves or mittens.

Wood or aluminum?

I watched my traditional wood snowshoes being made at the Iverson workshop in Shingleton, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula. I opted for classical gut for the 20

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By: Evie Kirkwood

“

It’s ideal for

quiet bird watching in a crusty, frozen marsh or for a rollicking workout across an open field.”

webbing, which a Native woman laced in ten minutes flat. Contemporary, lightweight snowshoes are a mix of aluminum, neoprene, composites and plastic. If you opt for these, be sure there are plenty of open spaces in the decking so snow won’t build up on top of your snowshoe.

Most outdoor/sporting goods stores sell a variety of sizes, shapes and colors with plenty of choices for kids, too. Expect to pay $150 to $300 for a pair. Poles are optional and helpful on hills and long treks. Wide or long snowshoes are best for very deep snow. (A six-foot man will need a longer shoe than a five-foot teen.)

Narrow snowshoes are easier to walk in and usually suffice for our modest snowpack.

Assess the bindings, too. Some buckle, others require lacing. Find something you find easy to put on and take off.

Try before you buy

See the list below for places that rent snowshoes.

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574.295.6260 866.295.6260 F: 574.295.5852

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Find the snow

Wait for the deep stuff and head to a nearby park or nature center. You’ll be amazed at the animal tracks, bird nests and wildlife you’ll see. Keep in mind that parks that groom their trails for cross country skiing don’t allow snowshoes on those trails, because it destroys the grooved track for that sport. Select open fields or un-groomed trails for the most enjoyment.

We’ve got the corner on good taste.

Join the club

Over 20 Wines 3 Wine Tasting Locations Wine Club Meeting Facilities Shipping Available

St. Joseph County Parks offers a fourweek snowshoe club for Boomers and Beyond on Tuesday mornings beginning January 20. Pre-registration and payment is required by January 15. Snowshoes are provided. Visit the calendar of events at www.sjcparks.org or phone 574-654-3155 for more info.

Rent ‘em

A couple area parks rent snowshoes for enjoyment on their properties when snow conditions permit.

Sarett Nature Center, Benton Center, MI, Avail. Tues-Sun, $6 for non-members/pair; $3 for members/pair (269)927-4832 Ferrettie-Baugo Creek County Park, Osceola, IN, Avail. Weekends, $3/pr (574)674-9765 • • •

BENTON HARBOR Vineyard & Winery

269.927.1512

SOUTH HAVEN 269.637.1211

GRAND HAVEN 616.414.7070

12corners.com boom | JaNUARY 2015

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Make Holiday Clean-Up It’s that time of year again! The time when the weeks of holiday rush has finally dwindled down, but before we can relax and get settled into the New Year, we have to undecorated and de-clutter the walls and shelves of our homes.

By: Lara West

I usually find I have accumulated quite the cluttered mess over the season with stacks of mail on tables and Christmas cards everywhere, and putting the Holiday décor away can be frustrating. If you’re anything like me, you end up shoving things into any available space you can find, and when you go to get things out next season it’s a rollercoaster of relief and disappointment as you quickly pull each item out to see how many you broke in your haste to get them back into storage.

This year I’m not making the same mistake. I devised a plan (with the help of my 96-year-old grandma, who can tell you exactly where to find anything stored away in her attic,) to properly stow the decorations away and avoid building up the cluttered mess.

Step 1: Clean the storage space. Pull out the empty storage tubs, wipe the

A tip for storing your Christmas Lights:

Step 2: Be prepared to let go. The space you cleaned is all the area you

Cut out a rectangular shaped piece of card board for each strand, and wrap the lights around it to avoid detangling them next year.

shelves and sweep the floor to determine how much space you have for the seasonal decorations.

have to store your decorations. Since we usually buy something every year, it’ best going into this knowing you will have to bless somebody else with a few of these great items. Start with the items you decided not to put out this year, and work your way around the house to see what you can live without.

Step 3: Organize similar items. Section off the room and put similar items

together. (Outside lights and cords for their own bin or bag, tree zipped away in a tree bag, table and mantel decorations in their own bin(s), tree decorations together or divide in some way- big and small, handmade and store bought, glass and plastic- however you want it.)

Step 4: Store items safely. Because we read the paper online, I don’t have

any newspaper around to wrap the ornament and knick-knacks in. I picked up a roll of the bubble wrap to keep my breakables safe. I usually use newspaper or tissue paper, but I can easily reuse the bubble wrap year after year (and feel a little green at the same time.)

That’s the plan for the holiday decorations, but there is still the issue of everything else that needs to be decluttered. Tackling the entire house in one swift go-round is not only impossible, but an unattainable ambition.

I’ve put together a chart to give us the best chance possible for de-cluttering success. I call it the “Wrappingup my home from the Holidays” list.

Task

Completed

1. Determine if any gift received is better off being re-gifted to someone specific or donated. (It’s the thought that counts, but you may not need another holiday themed mug or another fondue pot stacked in the cupboard.

2. Store lovely hand-stamped and/or sentimental cards in a self-adhesive photo book for easy viewing safe keeping later.

3. Throw away old mail, coupons and flyers, magazines from all rooms.

Clean all papers off the refrigerator and organize the kitchen junk drawer.

4. Remove all broken toys and puzzles with missing pieces.

Donate items that are no longer used, or hold no true value to the family.

5. Purge every chest of drawer and closet in the house.

Anything not worn in over a year goes. Donate the items to a local deposit.

This will get you started on the road to a successful holiday season wrap-up. Maintaining a house without clutter will not be an easy feat, but the plan is to really focus on not letting daily activities and errands stop you from taking the junk mail all the way to the trash can/shredder, putting the scissors, screw driver and pens neatly back into the drawer or filing away important documents right away.

With a little focus it is possible to rid the house of clutter, and have well-managed and organized rooms throughout.

Happy holiday de-cluttering! (You got this!) ••• boom | JaNUARY 2015

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By: Sue Carloni

THE 30-YEAR SECRET “Your life line shows you will have a long life.” I smiled and waited to hear more good fortune. “Your husband is going to die when he’s 56.”

My smile immediately disappeared as I jerked my hand away from the woman and hastily walked back to my seat.

I was in a night school program at the local technical college pursuing an Associate Degree in Accounting. For some strange reason, the instructor of my Sociology course had invited a “good” witch to our class that evening to read everyone’s palms.

“I had never heard of a good witch.

To me she fit the caricature of bad witches I’d seen in movies.

She even had a cackle to match.”

I had been hesitant to have my palm read, but when all the other students got in line, I joined them. I didn’t believe in fortune telling, but this eerie woman with long, straggly black hair and a floor-length, flowing, black silk gown gave me the creeps. I had never heard of a good witch. To me she fit the caricature of bad witches I’d seen in movies. She even had a cackle to match.

“How was class tonight?” my husband Kurt asked when I arrived home.

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“Um, we didn’t do much. I could have stayed home and not missed anything of importance.” I wished I had stayed home that evening.

The next few days were troubling. Although I was only in my early 20s, I knew that 56 was too young of an age to die. I couldn’t imagine life without Kurt. We had met when I was 14 and he was 16. We had never dated anyone else and fell in love shortly after meeting. We were meant for each other, and I was sure we’d be together forever.

As the years flew by, the thought of Kurt dying at 56 flittered into my mind every so often. With his 56th birthday approaching, I became nervous.

“What’s wrong?” Kurt asked. “You’re so quiet.”

“Nothing. Well…I’m just missing my dad today,” I lied. My dad had died five years prior and I did think of him often, but that wasn’t why I was quiet.

The day before Kurt’s 56th birthday, my stomach churned and my heart beat fast. My throat felt tight, as if it were being squeezed by an unseen hand. How foolish of me to let the witch read my palm!

That night before bed I gave Kurt my usual hug and kiss, but this time I held on a little longer and a little tighter. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“Do you know how much I love you?”

I spread my arms wide. “This much!”

When we were dating, Kurt had given me a figurine of a little girl with outstretched arms with “I love you this much” inscribed on it. Every so often, one of us would stretch out our arms and exclaim the sentiment. Tonight I meant it more than ever.

I lay in bed unable to fall asleep. What if the witch were right? What if Kurt died tomorrow—or anytime until his next birthday? Tears dampened my pillow.

I didn’t want to lose my life-long best friend and husband.

“Happy birthday!” I said the next morning.

Whew, he made it through the night.

I picked at my dinner that evening and managed to down a small slice of birthday cake. The night was filled with nightmares of Kurt dying. I woke up early in the morning and quickly glanced at Kurt. He was sleeping soundly. Or was he? I bolted upright and stared at him to make sure he was breathing. He was!

I lay back down and breathed easier. Yet I had 364 more days of this uncertainty to endure.

Kurt’s 57th birthday arrived and he was still alive. A wave of foolishness overcame me. I had worried for over 30 years that I was going to lose my husband when he was 56. I had never told him about it because I didn’t want him to worry. I vowed I would never tell him of my silly secret kept for decades.

A few days went by and I couldn’t hold it in any longer. “Kurt, there’s something I have to tell you.”

“You kept that secret for 30 years?”

“I have a confession to make. I allowed a witch to read my palm over 30 years ago, and she said you were going to die when you were 56. I was afraid to tell you because I didn’t want you to worry. I never told anyone.”

Kurt laughed. “You kept that secret for 30 years?”

“Well, what would you have said if I had told you back then?”

“I would have laughed and told you it was nonsense.”

Now that would have been good fortune. •••

Your membership to

a Happy New You

Kurt wrinkled his forehead. “What’s wrong?”

“I thought you were going to die when you were 56,” I blurted.

“What in the world made you think that?”

*See clinic for details. Rates and services vary by location and session. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2014 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.

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SOME THINGS Hitchcock By: Margo and Jim Bell

ANSWERS Matchup:

1-e:

Madeleine (Kim Novak) dives into San Francisco Bay at Golden Gate Park with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background scene.

2-g: This is where Professor Armstrong (Paul Newman) and Miss

Sherman (Julie Andrews) are having an al fresco lunch.

3-f:

The climax (attempted assassination) occurs in this famous building during a concert.

4-h: Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren) enters the bird shop in the

Union Square shopping district.

5-a: The city is the site of a political conference. A countryside windmill also appears.

6-c: Mount Rushmore provides an unusual but exciting setting

for a chase scene. Three of Hitchcock’s recurring themes—a blonde, monuments, and falling—are employed.

7-d:

Here’s another unusual and thrilling place for a good guy/bad guy pursuit, with Hitchcockian elements: falling and screaming—and, oh yeah, a blonde.

8-b:

Tower Bridge over the Thames River is presented during the opening scene.

Elements: h: All are Hitchcockian elements. Although murder (g) isn’t observed in each movie, it is often implied. Stabbing and strangulation are popular methods.

North by Northwest: d: It’s reported that Hitchcock took the name from a line in “Hamlet.”

Marnie: a: Marnie (Tippi Hedren) refers to him as Pendleton; later her mother calls him Pemberton. It doesn’t matter in that the boss was invented

by Marnie to cover up her income source.

c: Marnie suffered from erythrophobia (fear of the color blood red);

seeing this color throws her into panic. Deep shades of burgundy appear in the movie, but except for the bright red on a jockey’s outfit and the coats of fox hunters, this color is absent (except for the staircase carpet) until the revealing scene of an incident in Marnie’s childhood.

Cameos: d: Trying to spot Hitchcock is a delightful game for his fans, with

some appearances blatant (in Marnie, looking directly at the camera while entering an apartment) and others quick or subtle (through an office window in Psycho, wearing a Stetson hat). He’s appeared in a class photo (Dial M for Murder); in a newspaper (Lifeboat); walking past the bird store with his own two dogs (The Birds); and holding Julie Andrews’ daughter on his lap in a hotel lobby (Torn Curtain).

Thalburg Award: b: Hitchcock took the trophy and said, simply, “Thank you.” But on

the way out across the stage, he added, “very much indeed.” That’s a total of five words. In case you’re wondering, the shortest acceptance speech was “Thank you,” two words from Patty Duke (Best Supporting Actress, The Miracle Worker, 1962).

NOTE OF INTEREST: Alfred Hitchcock introduces himself

to movie audiences with a warning about the upcoming film Psycho.

People were used to popping in and out during a movie but with Psycho he demanded that viewers see the movie from the beginning and not reveal the ending to others who hadn’t yet seen the film.

SOURCES: “Spellbound by Beauty,” by Donald Spoto; “Dial H for Hitchcock (Rocket Science Movies); Moviefon; IMBd; Wikipedia; et al. •••

But screenwriter Ernest Leman suggested “Northwesterly Direction,” and for some reason in the end MGM changed it to “North By Northwest.” Incidentally, Leman was born in New York City, not Little Rock. Moreover, the direction of the plot is almost straight west from New York City to ATTENTION MOVIE TRIVIA FANS: In February we’ll present romantic movies that will include Rapid City and nearby Mount Rushmore.

“Green Card,” “Must Love Dogs” and “Love Story.”

Why “Northwest” was added is a puzzle.

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boom January Things We 1. Warm Winter Nights Cuddled Up By A Fire 2. New Year’s Resolutions 3. Weekends With The Grandkids 4. Snow Activities- Skiing, Tubing, Cross Country, Etc. 5. New Knitting Projects 6. Leftover Holiday Candy & Treats 7. Wax Warmers 8. Book Clubs 9. Dance Classes As A Form Of Working Out 10. Unlimited Coffee 11. Clean And Organized Home 12. The Smell of Winter Pine 13. Snowball Fights With The Grandkids 14. Berry Lipstick 15. Fresh Hair Color boom | JaNUARY 2015

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recipe

Ingredients:

Directions:

• 1 Cup Diced Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Sauté the onions, celery, carrots and potatoes in the margarine for 10 minutes.

Add flour to the sautéed mixture. Stir well and cook for one minute stirring constantly.

• 1 Cup Diced Onions • 1 Cup Diced Celery • 1 Cup Diced Carrots • 1/3 Cup Melted Margarine • 1/2 Cup Flour • 2 Cups Chicken Broth • 1 Cup Half-and-Half • 1 Teaspoon Salt • 1/4 Teaspoon Pepper • 4 Cups Cooked & Chopped Chicken • 2 Pie Crusts

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2. Combine the broth and half and half. Gradually stir into the vegetable mixture and cook over medium heat stirring constantly until it becomes thick and bubbly.

3. Stir in the salt and pepper; add chicken and stir well.

4. Pour into a shallow two quart casserole dish and top with pie shells. Cut slits into the pie shells to allow steam to escape.

5. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly and cooked through.

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book review

The End of Absence: Reclaiming What We’ve Lost in a World of Constant Connection

By Michael Harris Reviewed By: Bruce Runnels, Reference Librarian at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library In his first non-fiction book, The End of Absence: Reclaiming What We’ve Lost in a World of Constant Connection, Michael Harris delves straight into the fascinating topic of how technological advances throughout history have changed who we are and how we engage with the world around us. Having grown up in the 80’s, I remember a time in the not so distant past when life was less intruded upon by technology. In my college days, new digital natives were being born – a generation that seemed to become completely enthralled with and beholden to their technological devices.

In the years since, I have found myself progressively drawn in by the allurement of technology. A slow adopter of technology (yet leery of being labeled “luddite” or “old fashioned”), I began to search for a voice that would speak to my longing for responsible adoption of technology. In particular, I was drawn to this book by the hope that it could provide a balanced approach to engage with new technologies while remaining free to experience

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authentic life beyond the lens and beckoning of technology. To those ends, my expectations were met and exceeded.

In the first half of the book, Harris takes the reader through a brief history of technological advances throughout time – from oral tradition to writing, to the printing press, radio, television and current online mediums. It is intriguing to view these events through the lens of detractors and naysayers present at the time. He posits that each transition closely mimics the previous manifestation, and holds with it the promise of improving one’s life in some way. Yet at each juncture, something of value is lost, whether it be the ability to memorize, the authority of a specialist (elitists), the value of direct experience and so forth. Even the advent of a table of contents or book index points to our lost ability to recall a personally owned memory, instead relying on finding aids.

A contributing editor by trade, Harris is also a student of classical philosophy and

psychology.

He manages to write in an accessible manner, taking care to pull in only what is necessary to carry the conversation forward. It is apparent throughout the book that he is also very well “connected” so to speak. I was awestruck by the vast array of interviews he landed with founders of big named companies such as Twitter and Google. Thus, views on the aim and promise of technological “solutions” by the industry are highly plausible.

The aim of The End of Absence is to shed light on the motivations we have for going online (the pursuit of promise), what we have lost as a result (the value of productive absence), and how we can restore balance to our lives. This is a book about rediscovering the value of absence: the pleasures of finding ourselves and forming our own identity, living authentic life experiences, holding subjectively formed opinions, and enhancing our ability to recollect memories among other things. It is a well-written book that I highly recommend. •••

The Elkhart Humane Society Needs Your Help!

Loving animals are in need of families!

Polo: Hi, I am Polo and I need someone to play with. I am a young active guy, only 10-months-old. I am a strong beautiful tiger striped kitty.

I am neutered, so I am ready to go home with you. At the end of the day, I would like to have a place to cuddle.

Xavier: Hello, I am a neutered 3-1/2 year old brindle and white Pit Bull Terrier Mix. I am very playful and really like to hang with dogs bigger than me. I would love to be in my own home for the holidays.

Is that home with you?

Todd: I am a gorgeous guy with long gray fur and beautiful white markings.

Check out the facial fur. MEOW! I consider myself a helpful fellow too. I would be a great addition to your home. I am 5-yearsold and have been neutered. boom | JaNUARY 2015

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January 2015 Events The following list includes events around town. Always call ahead for updates.

January 2nd

Friday Night Folk Dancing

7:30 P.M. St. Paul’s Memorial United Methodist Church, South Bend Each Friday night, St. Paul’s Memorial United Methodist Church will be having Folk Dancing classes! Most dances are done as a group so you do not need a partner. Stop by for live music, fun exercise and a relaxed atmosphere! For more information, please call 574-288-3314.

January 3rd Yoga Fest

9:00 A.M. Spacious Heart Yoga Spend a day stress free at Yoga Fest! This is your time to meet with the teachers, explore the classes and have your questions answered! Discounts and giveaways will be offered! For more information, please visit Spacious Heart Yoga’s website!

January 6th

Live Well with Heart Failure: We Can Help!

1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. Center for Outpatient Services, St. Joseph, MI Learn to take control of heart failure so you can live life to the fullest every day! This free class will explain the causes and symptoms of heart failure and why your heart isn't pumping the way it should.

You'll learn new daily routines for managing this chronic disease and how to take control of your health. Class registration is required; please call (269) 556-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

January 9th Skyline Boys

7:00 P.M. Blue Gate Theater, Shipshewana This overnight success group, Skyline Boys, loves to spread the message of God’s love through Southern Gospel Music. Ticket pricing ranges from $24 to $40 depending on seating.

For more information, please visit their website at www.riegsecker.com.

Lost in Yonkers

7:30 P.M. South Bend Civic Theatre South Bend Civic Theatre presents Neil Simon’s Pulitzer and Tony Award winning comedy, Lost in Yonkers, from January 9th to January 25th in the Warner Theatre in South Bend. Tickets are $21 per person. For more information regarding show times and dates, please visit their website at www.sbct.org.

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The Odd Couple

7:30 P.M. Bristol Opera House Want a fun night full of laughter? Visit the Bristol Opera House to see “The Odd Couple!” Tickets are $17 per person!

January 10th

Cross Country Ski Lessons

10:00 A.M. – Noon St. Patrick’s County Park For ages 12 and up, join St. Joseph County Park staff for a cross country ski clinic. Topics include: equipment selection, waxing, clothing and gear, safety techniques and training. There will also be a ski lesson for beginners. If there are poor snow conditions, the program will be offered on January 17 instead. Registration and payment required by January 7. To register call 574-654-3155.

The Russian National Ballet Theatre presents Don Quixote

4:00 P.M. Lake Michigan College Mendel Center This beautifully artistic storytelling through dance will capture the audience’s attention at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center when the Russian National Ballet Theatre will perform Don Quixote! Tickets range from $34 to $45. person. For more information regarding show times and dates, please visit their website at www.sbct.org.

January 11th

The Bridal Spectacular

12:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. The Century Center Is your daughter or granddaughter getting married this year? Stop by the Century Center on January 11th for a one stop shop to get the majority of the vendors booked for her big day!

For more information, please visit the Century Center’s website at www.centurycenter.org.

Meet The Beetles – Rocks Lounge

Noon Blue Chip Casino Meet the Beetles is a fantastic tribute to John, Paul, George and Ringo! Each impersonator will amaze the audience with their talent. This is free to the public! For more information, please visit their website at www.bluechipcasino.com.

January 13th MyHeart 101

11:00 A.M. – Noon Benton Harbor Public Library Learn about heart disease, how to identify your

controllable and uncontrollable risk factors and how to decrease your chances of having a heart attack by making healthy lifestyle choices. Following the presentation, a free health screening will be offered, including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and waist measurement. Preregistration is preferred, but not required; walk-ins are welcome.

Refreshments will be provided.

January 16th

Valley RV & Camping Show

10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. The Century Center Keep up with the latest technology at the Valley RV and Camping Show this weekend at the Century Center. This three day event will highlight this year’s new RV’s and camping equipment. The show is held Friday from 10:00 A.M to 8:00 P.M., Saturday from 10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. and Sunday from Noon to 5:00 P.M. For more information, visit their website at www.centurycenter.org.

January 17th

Winter Holiday Concert

5:00 P.M. Saint Hedwig Memorial Center, South Bend The Winter Holiday Concert will take place on Saturday, 17 January, 2015, at Saint Hedwig Memorial in Downtown South Bend. The doors will open at 5:00 PM. Night Moves - Tribute To Bob Seger, will play from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Echoes Of Pompeii - Live Tribute To Pink Floyd, will play from 9:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Tickets available in advance or at the door for $15.00 each. For more information call 574-233-2540.

Proceeds supports the Holiday Food Baskets and the Santa Cop programs for the Saint Joseph County FOP, Lodge Number 155.

January 20th

Snowshoe Club for Seniors

10:30 A.M. – Noon Ferettie/Baugo Creek: Baugo Station Are you looking for a way to stay active this winter? Join Park Staff and other local seniors while snowshoeing the trails of Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park and St. Patrick’s County Park. Snowshoes allow you to enjoy the winter sights and sounds while exercising. Instructions and snowshoes will be provided. In the event of no snow we will enjoy a winter walk in the woods. Registration and payment are required

by January 15. To register call 574-654-3155.

January 21st

John Mellencamp

7:30 P.M. Morris Performing Arts Center John Mellencamp is a must-see at the Morris Performing Arts Center. Tickets range from $39.50 to $249 depending on seating. For more information, please contact the Morris Performing Arts Center or visit their website at www.morriscenter.org!

January 22nd

Swan Lake - The State Ballet Theatre of Russia

7:30 P.M. Morris Performing Arts Center Founded by legendary dancer and former Prima ballerina of The Bolshoi Theatre Ballet, Maya Plissetskaya, the State Ballet Theatre of Russia, now under the direction of award-winning dancer and Moiseyev soloist Nikolay Anokhin, presents one of the greatest classical ballets of all time. This full-scale production, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and based on Russian folklore and German legend, follows a heroic young prince as he works to free the beautiful swan maiden from an evil spell. The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents 50 of Russia's brightest ballet stars to bring this romantic tale of true love to glorious life! Full length ballet in four acts. Music by Pyotr llyich Tchaikovsky.

Choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov.

Tickets range from $15 to $55. Contact the Morris Box Office at 800-537-6415.

Guy Penrod

7:00 P.M. Blue Gate Theater, Shipshewana Guy Penrod is in every sense of the word a man cut from the cloth of rugged individualism.

Never is this more evident than in the tracks of his first solo country album project, BREATHE DEEP. It's more than a collection of thirteen new songs, it's the creative thumbprint of a man with strong values and a positive worldview that harkens back to deep roots in faith and family.

Ticket prices range from $19 to $72.

January 23rd Sister Act

8:00 P.M. Morris Performing Arts Center SISTER ACT is Broadway’s feel-amazing musical comedy smash hit! The New York Post calls it “RIDICULOUSLY FUN,” and audiences are jumping to their feet in total agreement!

Sister Act will be at the Morris Performing Arts Center for everyone to enjoy! For more information, please contact the Morris Box Office at 800-537-6415.

January 28th

Space Shuttle Challenger Accident

6:30 P.M. PHM Digital Video Theater/Planetarium This year marks the 26 anniversary of the Challenger Accident. This presentation will completely cover all the details of the preparation that led up to vehicular breakup at 73 seconds into the flight. Tickets are $1 (Children), $2 (Seniors) and $3 (Adults).

January 30th

Michiana Boat & Sports Show

12:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. The Century Center Beat those winter blues and stop by the Century Center this week and check out this year’s hottest new boats and sporting equipment!

This event is held Friday from noon to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. For more information, visit their website at www. centurycenter.org.

Voices United! A Concert for Christian Unity 7:00 P.M. University of Notre Dame, Keenan-Standford Chapel This free concert is for the whole community to attend! The concert will feature the Notre Dame Celebration Choir, the Voices of Faith Gospel Choir, Coro Primavera, the Four: 7 Totus Tuus Band and the Iron Sharpens Iron Music Team!

For more information, please visit their website at www.calendar.nd.edu.

January 31st

The Keystone Light Friends of Bob & Tom Show-Comedy Tour at Palais Royale 7:30 P.M. Palais Royal Ballroom Watch the popular comics from the syndicated morning show, Bob and Tom, performed live at the Palais Royale! The South Bend show lineup includes David Dyer, Drew Hastings, Ms. Pat and the show will be hosted by Chick McGee. Tickets are $27.50 each and includes a $1.00 donation to the Red Cross. For more information, please visit their website at www.morriscenter.org.

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